This tip sheet is for parents of children learning English who believe their child may need special education services. In New York City public schools, children who receive services to help them learn English and who also need special education services have the right to receive both types of services.

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We understand how difficult it can be to navigate the New York City Department of Education. Parents can spend an enormous amount of time researching different programs or simply trying to understand their child’s school-related rights.
AFC’s free know-your-rights guides, tip sheets, and other resources can help you advocate successfully for your child.
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This tip sheet explains how to apply for SSI, a government-run program that provides cash assistance for people with disabilities.
If you believe that an action taken by a school district is wrong and violates the law, one way to challenge the school district’s act is to appeal to the New York State Commissioner of Education. This fact sheet explains how to file an appeal.
Outline of the basic requirements for a co-location appeal.
This fact sheet explains the rights immigrant students and their families have in addressing incidents of bullying at school. This tip sheet also answers questions immigrant families may have about how to formally report incidences of bullying to their child’s school.
Thirty-two questions you can ask at your child’s next Parent Teacher Conference to learn more about their progress, participation, learning style, and academic strengths.
The Department of Education is enormous, and navigating through the system is a tough job for anyone. These Tip Sheets can point you in the right direction and help you advocate for the right school and services for your child, from early intervention and preschool through high school and beyond.
Detailed guide to the special education system in NYC and the rights of parents and students. Explains the process of referral, evaluation, IEP development, and placement, including information on non-public schools and due process rights.
Detailed guide to the special education system in NYC and the rights of parents and students. Explains the process of referral, evaluation, IEP development, and placement, including information on non-public schools and due process rights.
Detailed guide to the special education system in NYC and the rights of parents and students. Explains the process of referral, evaluation, IEP development, and placement, including information on non-public schools and due process rights.